ᐅ Final Inspection – Preliminary Review – Your Tips?

Created on: 14 Sep 2020 07:27
K
kati1337
Hello everyone!

I’ve started making a checklist of things to inspect and check in a new house before the final handover. I’ve come up with a few points, but with your collective knowledge, I’m sure we can add many more.

What I have so far:
- Check the electrical panel – test whether the rooms are protected as they should be (if possible at this stage)
- Verify that all roller shutters work
- Check that all power outlets function
- Test that all windows open and close properly
- Verify that toilets and sanitary fittings work
- Inspect windows and window frames for damage
- Check window sills for damage

Now it’s your turn. What else should be added?
(Sorry if there is already an existing thread on this that I missed – please feel free to share a link)
kati133714 Sep 2020 21:32
Hmm, I think a building inspector for the final acceptance here would cost me significantly more than 150€ (euros). :/
Tolentino14 Sep 2020 21:36
Yes, roughly double, but he might identify serious defects that need to be fixed to prevent bigger damage over time.
That wasn’t the case for me, but he also found scratches on three or four windows that were very small but within the visible area, so they were replaced as well. I would have been convinced that it was within tolerance.
No idea what value that has.
kati133714 Sep 2020 21:38
Tolentino schrieb:

Yes, roughly double the price, but the inspector might identify actual defects that need to be fixed to prevent bigger damage over time.
That wasn’t the case for me, but he also found scratches on three or four windows, which were very small but within the visible area, so they were replaced as well. I might have been convinced that it was within tolerance limits otherwise.
No idea what that is worth.

Thanks, that definitely makes a difference. I will call another inspector tomorrow who was recommended to us.
Y
ypg
14 Sep 2020 21:43
kati1337 schrieb:

Hmm, I think a surveyor for the final inspection here would cost me significantly more than 150€.
And even if it costs four times as much, it’s money well spent.
Vicky Pedia14 Sep 2020 22:02
kati1337 schrieb:

Hmm, I think a final inspection expert here would cost me significantly more than 150€.
Let’s slow down! There is unfortunately a lot of misinformation circulating. It is important—actually essential—to conduct a thorough final acceptance inspection. For this, a qualified professional should be consulted. There are civil engineers who are technically qualified to carry out this work, and some of them also act as expert inspectors on top of that.

I have been managing construction projects for years and naturally perform inspections for my clients. I charge by the hour. My hourly rate is certainly not low, but, as described here, it is definitely worth it. If you hire me (the same engineer) as an expert inspector, you will pay considerably more for this service.

What this means is: there are firms with construction surveyors or civil engineers who bill by the hour, deliver good work, and are affordable! Please avoid using the word “expert inspector”!
Vicky Pedia14 Sep 2020 22:08
kati1337 schrieb:

Hmm, I think a surveyor for the final inspection here would cost me significantly more than €150. :/
Definitely! It depends somewhat on the federal state! But don’t be stingy when there’s half a million worth of construction involved. They represent you and your interests!! You’ll make that back with the acceptance!
By the way: My personal goal is to manage most of it myself!